The German Cockroach

German Cockroach
Cockroaches are one of the most nauseating pests we come across and always want to eradicate from our premises. Identifying their species is essential for a proper remedy against them as there are around 4000 types of roaches in this world. The German cockroach is the most common cockroach species that exists in domestic settings. The following details will guide you in identifying and controlling these pests.
HOW TO IDENTIFY GERMAN COCKROACHES
Appearance
German cockroaches are small roaches. Their average body size is 1.1 to 1.6 cm long and posses’ different colors that vary from tan to light brown to blackish brown. They have a flat oval-shaped body, long antennae, and two dark colored, parallel stripes which run down on their back. They have a pair of wings, however, they aren’t functional.
Behavior
German cockroaches live in warm and humid habitat. They select places for nesting which provides them easy access to food and water. German cockroaches don’t fly; they only glide if feel threatened. They can run fast and swiftly move around in their surroundings and then hide in their nests.
The german roach uses their antennae to communicate with their fellow roaches. Their antennas serve as sensory devices for them, which they also use to find food and analyze their environment. Young roaches never get out from the aggregation setting to search for food; adult cockroaches go out, take in the food and then feed the young roaches with their fecal droppings.
Signs
Spotting cockroach feces is the first sign of cockroach presence. If you find dark, pepper-like spots or droppings on kitchen cabinets, drawers, near the cracks or corners of the rooms, then this points toward the presence of German cockroaches.
For further confirmation, check for their empty egg capsules which they shed. A musty odor is a clue for an existing cockroach infestation, because when the chemicals they release are in large quantity, then such odor is produced.